Taste The Philippines: Learn How To Air Fryer Lechon Kawali For A Flavorful Treat

Introduction:
Air fryers have revolutionized home cooking, allowing us to enjoy crispy, healthier versions of our favorite fried foods. One such delicacy that can be effortlessly prepared in an air fryer is the beloved Filipino dish, lechon kawali. This crispy pork belly dish is a staple in Filipino cuisine and is often served during special occasions. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the art of making lechon kawali in an air fryer, providing step-by-step instructions, tips, and tricks to achieve the perfect crispy texture and savory flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 pound pork belly, skin on
• 1/4 cup vinegar
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Cooking oil spray

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pork Belly:
Remove the pork belly from the refrigerator and pat it dry with paper towels. Score the skin with a sharp knife, making shallow cuts about 1/4 inch apart. This will help the skin crisp up during cooking.

2. Season the Pork Belly:
In a small bowl, combine the vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, black pepper, and salt. Rub the marinade all over the pork belly, ensuring that it gets into the scored skin. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best results.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (180°C). Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or a reusable air fryer liner for easy cleanup.

4. Place the Pork Belly in the Air Fryer:
Remove the pork belly from the refrigerator and place it skin-side up in the air fryer basket. Spray the pork belly with cooking oil spray to prevent sticking.

5. Air Fry the Pork Belly:
Air fry the pork belly for 20 minutes at 360°F (180°C). Then, increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and continue air frying for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy.

6. Rest the Pork Belly:
Once cooked, remove the pork belly from the air fryer and transfer it to a cutting board. Allow it to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This will help the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and juicy pork belly.

Tips for Crispy Skin:

• Score the skin deeply to encourage maximum crispiness.
• Use a sharp knife to avoid tearing the skin.
• Spray the pork belly with cooking oil spray before air frying.
• Cook the pork belly at a high temperature to achieve a crispy skin.

Variations:

• Crispy Pork Belly with Five-Spice: Add 1 teaspoon of five-spice powder to the marinade for an aromatic twist.
• Lechon Kawali with Garlic and Ginger: Finely chop 2 cloves of garlic and 1 tablespoon of ginger and add them to the marinade for a savory and flavorful pork belly.
• Lechon Kawali with Lemon-Herb Marinade: Use lemon juice, fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary, and a touch of honey to create a refreshing and zesty marinade.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve lechon kawali with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as soy sauce, vinegar, or a spicy sauce.
• Accompany lechon kawali with steamed rice, vegetables, or your favorite Filipino dishes like adobo or sinigang.
• Enjoy lechon kawali as a main course or as a flavorful appetizer.

The Joy of Lechon Kawali:

Lechon kawali is a beloved Filipino dish that embodies the essence of celebration and family gatherings. Whether it’s a special occasion or a simple family dinner, lechon kawali always brings joy and satisfaction. The crispy skin, tender meat, and savory flavors make it a dish that is both indulgent and comforting.

Questions You May Have

Q: Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use pork shoulder or pork loin for this recipe, but pork belly is the traditional and recommended cut for lechon kawali.

Q: How long can I marinate the pork belly?
A: You can marinate the pork belly for as little as 30 minutes or as long as overnight. The longer you marinate it, the more flavorful it will be.

Q: What is the best dipping sauce for lechon kawali?
A: There is no one definitive dipping sauce for lechon kawali. Some popular options include soy sauce, vinegar, spicy sauce, or a combination of these.

Q: Can I reheat lechon kawali in the air fryer?
A: Yes, you can reheat lechon kawali in the air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and air fry for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.

Q: How do I store leftover lechon kawali?
A: Leftover lechon kawali can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.